The Mercedes-Benz SL, a nameplate that has adorned some of the most beautiful and performance-oriented open-top cars for decades, holds a revered place in automotive history. For enthusiasts and casual observers alike, the mere mention of ‘SL’ conjures images of elegant design, effortless power, and an undeniable sense of prestige. It’s a car that, like the Porsche 911 or the Ford Mustang, truly earns the often-overused moniker of ‘iconic’ within the automotive world. Yet, with each new generation, especially the latest R232, the question invariably arises: does it honor its legendary past, or does it chart a dramatically different course?
This latest iteration of the SL is a fascinating study in evolution, a dramatic reinterpretation of a classic. Gone are the days of a purely ‘Super Light’ ethos, a concept that defined its early, race-bred ancestors. Today’s Mercedes-AMG SL-Class, particularly the current-generation 577-horsepower AMG SL 63, embodies a different philosophy, blending raw power with Mercedes’ world-class touring car feel. It’s undoubtedly still super, but light? Not so much. This article seeks to dissect the various facets of this new SL, examining how it measures up against its heritage and the expectations placed upon such a distinguished nameplate.
From its groundbreaking platform developed entirely by AMG to its surprisingly contentious 2+2 seating configuration, the new SL presents a blend of the familiar and the revolutionary. We will delve into what makes its interior ‘truly world-class,’ explore the return of the classic soft-top, and analyze the complex interaction drivers have with its sophisticated MBUX infotainment system and steering wheel. Prepare for an in-depth exploration of whether this modern marvel lives up to, or redefines, the enduring legacy of the Mercedes-Benz SL.
1. **The Enduring Legacy of the SL Badge**
The name ‘SL’ has long been shorthand for ‘Sport Leicht,’ or ‘Sport Light,’ a testament to the original car’s groundbreaking lightweight construction and motorsport pedigree. The very first SL arrived in 1952 as a post-war competition car, famously leading to the thrilling road version with its signature gullwing doors and radical engineering. This foundation set a standard for agility, performance, and advanced design that few could match, establishing the SL as a true automotive aristocrat.
However, in the 21st century, the ‘light’ aspect of the SL’s original designation has largely faded. As the context notes, ‘it’s certainly been a while since the SL could truthfully claim to be sporty or light.’ Modern technological advancements, including an abundance of screens and powered amenities, have contributed to a significant increase in vehicle weight. Even the four-cylinder two-wheel-drive SL 43 tips the scales at 1,909kg, while the top-tier SL 63 S E Performance hybrid weighs a hefty 2,320kg. This substantial increase in mass challenges the very essence of its ‘light’ moniker, prompting a critical look at whether the badge still fully fits.
The new car aims to redress the balance, but it’s clear that the ‘mission creep’ of modern automotive development has taken its toll on the SL’s svelte past. While the new SL is undoubtedly a high-performance machine, its weight distribution and overall heft diverge significantly from its ancestors. The emotional wallop of the SL badge remains, but its connection to its ‘Super Light’ origins has become more tenuous, prompting a re-evaluation of what ‘SL’ truly signifies in an era of advanced engineering and luxury.
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2. **The AMG-First Development Philosophy**
A defining characteristic of the seventh-generation R232 SL is its unprecedented development under the exclusive aegis of AMG. This marks a radical departure from previous generations, signifying that the ‘sport’ part of the equation is now being taken with utmost seriousness. Unlike its predecessors, which often shared platforms with Mercedes-Benz sedans, this new SL is built on an ‘AMG-specific platform shared with the AMG GT.’ Crucially, ‘there is no “base” SL-Class model without an AMG badge,’ underscoring its performance-oriented identity.
This platform sharing, specifically with the AMG GT, is a ‘watershed moment for the model,’ as it elevates the SL to ‘a whole new level of performance.’ The chassis is entirely new, borrowing nothing from existing Mercedes models; in fact, it ‘donates those things to the new AMG GT.’ This dedication to AMG engineering translates into a car designed from the ground up for exhilarating performance, integrating all-wheel drive and an active rear-steer axle, at least for the V8 models, to maximize dynamic capabilities. The result is a ‘bristling aggression and exuberant engine note’ that puts its AMG underpinnings first.
However, this AMG-first approach also shapes the SL’s character, potentially shifting it away from its traditional grand touring comfort. While it drives with ‘bristling aggression,’ it can also feel ‘too stiff and brutish to excel in casual cruising,’ and ‘not being precise and lithe enough to run with elite sports cars.’ This raises questions about the car’s ultimate purpose, hinting at a slight confusion in its identity. The commitment to AMG performance is clear, but the balance with its luxury roadster heritage is a delicate act, with the driving dynamics reflecting a strong, almost singular, focus on sportiness.
3. **A Return to the Classic Soft-Top**
One of the most noticeable and welcomed design choices for the R232 generation is the return to a classic soft-top convertible setup. In an era where power-retractable hardtops became a popular, albeit weighty, trend for luxury convertibles, Mercedes made a conscious decision to opt for a ‘cloth hood’—a move that evokes a more traditional sports car character without veering into overtly retro territory. This ‘impressive piece of design’ folds and stows ‘quickly and quietly into a surprisingly tight space,’ which is a significant practical advantage.
Beyond aesthetics and historical homage, the soft-top contributes to a ‘reasonable amount of luggage room’ when folded, contrasting positively with the boot space eaten by older folding metal roofs. It opens and closes in ’15 seconds and can be done on the move at speeds up to 40mph,’ adding to the convenience and enjoyment of open-air motoring. The decision to go with a fabric roof not only ‘imbues the SL with a more classically sports car character’ but also brings a weight saving over a complex hardtop mechanism, albeit a marginal one given the car’s overall mass.
From a visual standpoint, the ‘neat rear end’ facilitated by the soft-top enhances the SL’s proportions, contributing to a modern yet timeless silhouette. While some might bemoan the digital control of the roof via the central infotainment screen rather than a physical switch, considering it ‘a disappointingly fiddly process,’ the overall impact of the soft-top’s return is overwhelmingly positive. It reinforces the SL’s identity as a proper open-top sports car, prioritizing sensory experience and classic elegance over the perceived solidity of a hardtop.
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4. **The World-Class Cabin Experience**
Stepping inside the new Mercedes-AMG SL is an experience that immediately conveys luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. The context unequivocally states that the ‘interior is truly world-class in its design, materials and craftsmanship.’ While the ‘essential style doesn’t stray too far from other gas-powered Mercedes models,’ this motif is perfectly suited to the SL’s role as a sophisticated touring car. The attention to detail is evident, with ‘plush materials and advanced technology’ adorning the cabin, ensuring ‘exceptional comfort and convenience’ for occupants.
Mercedes has also taken a refreshingly bold approach to exterior color palettes, a move that extends to the interior experience. Unlike other luxury automakers adopting ‘a conservative approach to exterior color palettes,’ Mercedes offers the SL in ‘more than 17 colors,’ many of which are vibrant and ‘make the SL stand out.’ This commitment to personalization and aesthetic flair is mirrored inside, with options like ‘Manufaktur Nappa leather upholstery with diamond quilting’ and ‘Signature Yacht Blue/Black, Mystic Red/Black’ interior colorways, creating an atmosphere that is both glamorous and inviting.
Comfort is paramount, featuring ‘AMG Performance seats with three massage programmes’ and the ‘Energizing Package Plus,’ which combines seating functions and mood lighting to enhance the journey. Despite a ‘reductionist cabin design’ and the ‘hyperanalogue’ theme that blends classic geometry with digital tech, there’s a perceived quality that stands ‘a cut above Mercedes’ less impressive standard for its more workaday models.’ Although some might find it ‘a little too glossy, ritzy and chintzy,’ the overall impression is one of lavishness, even if ‘too much plastic masquerading as aluminium’ might detract from a truly ‘lavish sense of inherent expensiveness and heft’ compared to rivals.
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5. **The Controversial 2+2 Seating Arrangement**
A significant departure for this generation of the SL is the inclusion of ‘+2’ second-row seating, a feature not seen in several generations. While Mercedes advises these back seats are ‘for passengers up to 1.5 metres tall,’ and technically provide ‘capacity for four occupants in its 2+2 seating arrangement,’ the reality paints a different picture. The space is undeniably ‘tiny,’ offering ‘little shoulder room and even less legroom,’ leading to the conclusion that ‘No human, unless three-foot high, is getting in the back.’
This design choice has been met with skepticism, with many suggesting the SL ‘should be thought of as a two-seater with some extra storage space, not a proper four-seat convertible.’ Even for passengers who meet the height restriction, the seats have ‘very upright backrests and aren’t easy to access or exit.’ While Mercedes claims they ‘do add some practicality – even when only carrying shopping bags,’ the inclusion ‘erodes the cabin’s sense of exclusivity’ without delivering genuine usability for passengers. This is particularly highlighted for the PHEV variant where the battery further compromises space.
The conundrum is evident: ‘Longer-lived SL regulars might well have preferred a two-seat cabin with more boot space, while those to whom the extra usability of back seats is supposed to appeal might well wonder what they’re really getting when those ‘seats’ might just as well be a luggage rack.’ This feature exemplifies a slight identity crisis, attempting to expand its utility while fundamentally remaining a luxury roadster optimized for two. It’s a compromise that fails to fully satisfy either a desire for strict two-seater sportiness or genuine four-seat practicality, making it one of the more contentious aspects of the new SL.
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6. **MBUX Infotainment: Innovation vs. Usability**
The technological heart of the new SL’s cabin is its advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, centered around an ‘11.9in portrait-style MBUX infotainment screen.’ This system is a clear example of Mercedes’ ‘hyperanalogue’ philosophy, blending classic design geometry with the latest digital technology. A standout feature is the screen’s motorized hinge at its base, allowing it to be ‘adjusted between 12 and 32deg of inclination from the vertical’ to ‘make it less likely to reflect light in your eyes, and at the same time it brings the top edge closer, within easier reach’ during top-down driving – a truly clever touch.
While the tilting screen is lauded for its functionality, the broader implementation of MBUX within the SL raises questions about usability versus digital saturation. ‘Too many of the SL’s controls can only be accessed through the screen,’ a point of contention when compared to rivals like the Porsche 911, which ‘provides more physical controls that are less distracting to find and use.’ This digital-first approach means that common functions often require navigating menus, a process that can be less intuitive and more distracting while driving, despite the presence of steering wheel controls and a ‘cursor controller on the left spoke.’
For those accustomed to modern Mercedes interfaces, the system is ‘navigable enough, with practice and familiarity,’ offering ‘wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,’ and a ‘navigation system displays mapping clearly and plots routes effectively.’ However, the learning curve is acknowledged, as it ‘does take some time to get used to the infotainment system.’ While packed with ‘impressive technologies’ and offering upgrades like a ‘head-up display’ and ‘augmented reality navigation,’ the reliance on a single, large touchscreen for so many functions highlights a common modern dilemma: the trade-off between sleek, minimalist design and the ergonomic benefits of tactile, physical controls, impacting the car’s overall ‘hedonistic remit’ for simple driving pleasure.
7. **The Intricate Steering Wheel Controls**
The driving experience of the new SL, particularly in its higher-performance iterations, is intrinsically linked to its steering wheel. This isn’t a simple interface; it’s a densely packed control center that immediately signals the vehicle’s advanced technological ambition. The steering wheel, as noted, features “so many dials and capacitive-touch buttons that they had to add extra spokes to accommodate them,” a clear indicator of Mercedes’ digital-first philosophy extending directly to driver interaction.
While undoubtedly impressive from an engineering standpoint, this proliferation of digital controls comes with a trade-off in intuitive usability. Many essential functions, alongside those related to the MBUX system, are channeled through these capacitive-touch surfaces. This can make for a less straightforward experience, requiring drivers to divert attention from the road more frequently to locate and activate specific settings, challenging the desire for a “less-is-more approach” in a performance roadster where immediacy and focus are paramount.
Indeed, when placed alongside rivals such as the Porsche 911, the SL’s steering wheel design highlights a fundamental difference in philosophy. The Porsche, for instance, “provides more physical controls that are less distracting to find and use,” offering a tactile reassurance that some drivers still prefer. While the SL does offer a “cursor controller on the left spoke” to navigate the MBUX system, the sheer volume of digital inputs on the wheel itself contributes to an initial learning curve and a potentially higher distraction factor during spirited driving.
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8. **Diverse Powertrains: From Turbo-Four to Twin-Turbo V8**
The new Mercedes-AMG SL-Class presents a formidable array of powertrain options, each meticulously engineered to deliver a distinct driving character while upholding the AMG performance ethos. As the entry point, the SL43 stands apart, featuring a 2.0-liter I-4 engine. This unit is uniquely equipped with an electric turbo, a road-car world’s first that helps it churn out a respectable 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, enabling an estimated 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.3 seconds, all channeled through a rear-wheel-drive setup.
Stepping up the ladder, the SL offers two non-hybrid V8 versions, both utilizing Mercedes’ vigorously internally combusting 4.0-liter ‘hot V’ twin-turbo engine, paired with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The SL55 variant produces a robust 469 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0-60 mph in a swift 3.6 seconds. The SL63 further escalates the performance, delivering 577 hp and 590 lb-ft, slashing the 0-60 mph time to an impressive 3.1 seconds, solidifying its position as a serious high-performance machine.
This current 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 represents a significant evolution in the SL’s engine history, a journey that saw the R230 generation boast a high-revving, naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, followed by the R231’s 5.5-liter bi-turbo. The adoption of the 4.0-liter unit, shared with the AMG GT and E 63, while maintaining substantial power, truly benefits from the integration of AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and the lightning-quick AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission. This combination replaces the previous torque converter setup, resulting in a demonstrably “better, faster, more dynamic car than it ever was before,” reflecting a relentless pursuit of enhanced driver engagement and capability.
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9. **The Zenith: The SL63 S E Performance Hybrid**
At the pinnacle of the SL lineup resides the Mercedes-AMG SL63 S E Performance, a truly groundbreaking variant that marries formidable V8 power with advanced plug-in hybrid technology. This model is not just a mere upgrade; it’s a statement of engineering prowess, combining a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a rear-mounted electric motor and a two-speed transmission. The result is a staggering combined system output of 805 hp and an immense 1,047 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful SL since the R230-generation SL65 Black Series.
The hybrid architecture in the SL63 S E Performance is a sophisticated ‘P4’-style setup. Here, the V8 contributes 604 hp, while a potent 201 hp electric drive motor independently drives into the rear differential via its own two-speed electric motor. This intricate system delivers truly titanic outputs, propelling the car from 0-60 mph in a breathtaking estimated 2.8 seconds and achieving a top speed of 197 mph. Such acceleration firmly places it in supercar territory, promising an electrifying blend of instantaneous electric torque and raw V8 thrust, despite the complexities of how all that power is precisely delivered.
Beyond its sheer power, the SL63 S E Performance comes equipped as standard with a suite of advanced chassis technologies, elevating its dynamic capabilities without extra cost. These include steel coil springs working in conjunction with active anti-roll bars and hydraulically interconnected dampers, ensuring exceptional body control. Four-wheel steering enhances agility, and carbon-ceramic brake discs provide monumental stopping power. Power for the electric motor is supplied by a compact 6.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, though its estimated 7 miles of all-electric range is more for short, silent bursts around town than for meaningful emissions reduction.
The driving experience in the SL63 S E Performance is nothing short of exhilarating. The “combined reserves of internal combustion engine and electric motor give this car towering performance.” Selecting Sport+ or Race modes unleashes a “deep and unfiltered baritone blare of the V8” that is rich in audible appeal. It feels “genuinely supercar-fast” with “huge and instantly accessible torque.” Despite adding 225 kg to the kerb weight, the hybrid system ensures this mass doesn’t limit performance, allowing the car to balance its dual role as a traditional sun-seeking roadster and a rapid open-top sports car with remarkable aplomb.
Car Model Information: 2019 Lexus GX 460 Premium
Name: Mercedes-AMG GmbH
Logo: File:AMG logo.svg
Type: Subsidiary
Fate: DaimlerChrysler
Foundation: Burgstetten
Founders: Hans Werner Aufrecht,Erhard Melcher
LocationCity: Affalterbach
LocationCountry: Germany
AreaServed: Worldwide
KeyPeople: Philipp Schiemer (Chairman of the Board)
Industry: Automotive industry
Products: High performance automobiles
Services: Research and development
NumEmployees: ~2,900
Parent: Mercedes-Benz
Homepage: www.mercedes-amg.com
Categories: 1967 establishments in West Germany, 24 Hours of Le Mans teams, ADAC GT Masters teams, All articles with dead external links, All articles with vague or ambiguous time
Summary: Mercedes-AMG GmbH, commonly known as AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, Großaspach), is the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG. AMG independently hires engineers and contracts with manufacturers to customize Mercedes-Benz AMG vehicles. The company has its headquarters in Affalterbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
AMG was originally an independent engineering firm specializing in performance improvements for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. DaimlerChrysler AG took a controlling interest in 1999, then became the sole owner of AMG in 2005. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG, which is in turn owned by the Mercedes-Benz Group.
AMG models typically have more aggressive looks, higher performance, better handling, better stability and more carbon fibre than their regular Mercedes-Benz counterparts. AMG models are typically the most expensive and highest-performing variant of each Mercedes-Benz class. AMG has also made special variants of some Mitsubishi and Honda models.
AMG variants are usually badged with two numerals, as opposed to regular Mercedes-Benz vehicles, which have three (e.g. “E 63” as opposed to “E 350”). The numerals do not always indicate engine size, but are rather a tribute to earlier heritage cars, such as the 300 SEL 6.3 litre. For example, newer-model AMG V8s such as the E 63 actually have 4.0L V8s.
The world’s first stand-alone Mercedes-AMG dealership, AMG Sydney, was opened in Sydney, Australia in 2018.
Get more information about: Mercedes-AMG
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Brand: Mercedes-AMG Model: SL63 S E Performance
Price: $30,991 Mileage: 72,932 mi.
10. **Dynamic Handling Characteristics: Performance vs. Comfort**
The dynamic capabilities of the new SL are a complex blend, heavily influenced by its AMG-first development philosophy. The car drives with a “bristling aggression and exuberant engine note,” indicative of its high-performance aspirations. For the first time in its long history, the SL features active rear-axle steering as standard, a sophisticated system that enhances both agility and stability. At speeds up to 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front, improving turn-in, while at higher speeds, they steer in the same direction, boosting high-speed stability.
However, this aggressive tuning comes at a cost to traditional grand touring comfort. The SL can feel “too stiff and brutish to excel in casual cruising,” and is “not being precise and lithe enough to run with elite sports cars.” On less-than-perfect surfaces, particularly “bumpy British roads,” the ride quality can lead to “turbulent body movements.” Moreover, the ride can become “noisier and clunkier than other SLs on account of the overall mass and the stiffness of the tyre sidewalls,” often feeling “more abrupt and percussive” over vertical inputs, especially in the heavier V8 and hybrid variants.
The steering, a critical component of driver engagement, is described as feeling “remote and unintuitive,” lacking the tactile feedback often desired in a sports car. The complex chassis systems—including active anti-roll, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel steering—on the V8 and E Performance models are designed for supreme grip and security. Yet, paradoxically, these sophisticated aids can make those variants “even harder to bond with,” leading to a perception that the V8 chassis systems are “too clever for their own good.” This often detracts from the pure enjoyment of driving, leaving some enthusiasts feeling a disconnect.
Interestingly, the lighter and simpler SL43 offers a more fathomable and engaging experience, suggesting that less complexity sometimes translates to more driver satisfaction. Ultimately, while the SL possesses “huge lateral grip and roll resistance,” neither is quite convincing enough to fully reassure that it belongs at the very fastest B-road speeds, highlighting a subtle confusion in its core purpose—a balance between opulent luxury GT and uncompromising sports car that not all models perfectly achieve.
11. **Practical Compromises: Trunk Space and Fuel Economy**
For a luxury roadster intended for grand touring, the new Mercedes-AMG SL presents some notable practical compromises, particularly concerning luggage capacity. While the return of the soft-top was praised for leaving a “reasonable amount of luggage room,” the actual trunk space is described as “tiny,” even “tinier than its back seat.” In standard SL models, this translates to about 213 liters of boot space. However, in the range-topping SL63 S E Performance, the integrated PHEV batteries significantly impinge on this, robbing the car of 103 liters and leaving a meager 110 liters overall. With mandatory charging cables occupying precious space, there’s barely “enough room for a medium-sized soft rucksack,” forcing larger suitcases into the cabin.
This severe limitation in luggage capacity directly contradicts the expectations of a high-end luxury GT. “Longer-lived SL regulars might well have preferred a two-seat cabin with more boot space,” indicating a potential misstep in prioritizing the “plus-two” seating over practical cargo space. The situation is further exacerbated when the “back seats” – already too small for human occupants – are then pressed into service as overflow luggage compartments. This design choice prompts the question of what value these nominal rear seats truly offer, especially for those seeking genuine utility for weekend getaways, making the “meagre boot” a major shortcoming.
Beyond space, the SL’s fuel economy poses another significant practical consideration. The powerful 577-horsepower SL63 engine, for example, is noted for its “terrible fuel economy,” with efficiency ratings around 13 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. This means frequent visits to the gas station for premium fuel, a running cost that quickly adds up. Even the SL63 S E Performance, despite its hybrid powertrain, offers a real-world electric range of only 6-7 miles. This minimal electric capability “is certainly not enough to have a meaningful effect on how much fuel your 800bhp Mercedes is likely to use,” meaning drivers should realistically expect to keep it on the “high side of 25mpg” if they drive very conservatively, underscoring that raw performance comes at a substantial environmental and financial cost.
12. **Positioning Against Formidable Rivals**
The modern Mercedes-AMG SL-Class operates in an intensely competitive arena, facing formidable rivals that offer compelling alternatives in the high-performance luxury roadster segment. Its primary competitors include the iconic Porsche 911 Cabriolet, the stylish Lexus LC500 Convertible, and the sophisticated BMW 8 Series Convertible. Each of these rivals brings its own distinct blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics, forcing the SL to carve out a unique identity amidst a field of excellence.
Mercedes’ decision to lean heavily into AMG performance means the SL often finds itself in direct comparison with the Porsche 911, a benchmark for sports car dynamism. However, as the context critically observes, the SL’s core challenge is that its “problem remains the Porsche 911, which is sportier again, yet pretty much as refined.” While the SL showcases a “bristling aggression and exuberant engine note,” coupled with Mercedes’ elegant design, luxurious materials, and impressive technologies, it struggles to definitively outperform the 911 in terms of raw athleticism or uncompromised driver engagement.
This dynamic positioning underscores a subtle identity crisis for the new SL. It is described as being “too stiff and brutish to excel in casual cruising, while not being precise and lithe enough to run with elite sports cars.” This duality suggests a car that, despite its impressive breadth of capabilities, doesn’t fully commit to either a purely relaxed touring experience or an uncompromisingly sporty one. For its six-figure starting price, a vehicle of the SL-Class’s caliber “should better balance those attributes,” leaving some drivers to ponder if they might prefer a high-end convertible “more decided on being relaxed and comfortable, or uncompromisingly sporty” to fully satisfy their indulgence.
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Ultimately, the new Mercedes-AMG SL is a magnificent machine, a testament to complex engineering and a rich heritage. It’s a car that evokes a profound emotional response, a sentiment perfectly captured by the observation that “the SL is a Mercedes of typically impressive bandwidth, full of complex engineering but not unemotional, as befits its hedonistic remit.” It has arguably become the most genuinely sporting SL since its Fifties ancestor, a bold stride into a new era. Yet, as our exploration reveals, its ambitious fusion of luxury and performance, while breathtaking in many respects, still presents a nuanced proposition for discerning enthusiasts. The journey of the SL continues, evolving yet constantly striving to meet the lofty expectations of its iconic nameplate.
